2014

March

PROMOTING WASTEWATER TREATMENT QUALITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE www.onsiteinstaller.com

Bedrock, water posesite challengesPage 22

Dont forget to fix the landscape Page 26

Bring luster tomachine finishesPage 28

Canadas OSI set itself up as the champion of the tough job, finding ways to install effective systems on sites with marginal soil conditionsPAGE 12

THE PROBLEMSolvers

With its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-Slicecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivore

literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into

its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.

With its unique patented V-Slice cutter technology, the Omnivore

literally devastates anything unfortunate enough to enter into

its vicious vortex.

U.S. Patent No. 7159806

Copyright Liberty Pumps, Inc. 2014 All rights reserved.

With its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-SliceWith its unique patented V-Slicecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivorecutter technology, the Omnivore

literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything literally devastates anything unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into unfortunate enough to enter into

its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.its vicious vortex.

With its unique patented V-Slice cutter technology, the Omnivore

literally devastates anything unfortunate enough to enter into

its vicious vortex.

U.S. Patent No. 7159806

Copyright Liberty Pumps, Inc. 2014 All rights reserved.

4 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

Accu-Tab is a registered trademark of Axiall

We may be new to you, but on-site wastewater expertise isnt new to us.We offer a new generation of wastewater tablets under our industry-proven Accu-Tab brand.

Ideal for on-site aerobic wastewater systems that treat up to 250,000 gallons per day.

Smaller 2 1/2-inch tablet design reduces the impact of wicking and minimizes risk of tablets getting stuck in feeders.

Plug-and-play with standard 2 5/8-inch feeders.

Contains a silica-based erosion modifier (instead of potentially reactive stearates) for on-site applications.

Paying too much for broken, unreliable chlorine tablets in your customers on-site aerobic wastewater systems?Get your quote at www.accu-tab.com/wastewaterexperts and information on how ACCU-TAB wastewater tablets provide a higher-quality solution at a lower cost!

Have we met yet?

contents 2014March PROMOTING WASTEWATER TREATMENT QUALITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE www.onsiteinstaller.com Bedrock, water posesite challengesPage 22Dont forget to fix the landscape Page 26 Bring luster tomachine finishesPage 28 Canadas OSI set itself up as the champion of the tough job, finding ways to install effective systems on sites with marginal soil conditionsPAGE 12

THE PROBLEMSolvers

Call toll free 800-257-7222;

outside of U.S. or Canada call 715-546-33467:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Central time, Mon.-Fri.

Website: www.onsiteinstaller.com Email: info@onsiteinstaller.com Fax: 715-546-3786

SUBSCRIPTIONSA one year (12 issue) subscription to Onsite Installer in the United States or Canada is free to qualified subscribers. A qualified subscriber is any individual or company in the United States or Canada that partakes in the installation, design, maintenance, manufacture, treatment, consulting or sale of onsite wastewater treatment systems or supplies. Non-qualified subscriptions are available at a cost of $60 per year in the United States and $120 per year outside of the United States. To subscribe please visit onsiteinstaller.com or send company name, mailing address, phone number and check or money order (U.S. funds payable to COLE Publishing Inc.) to the address above. MasterCard, VISA and Discover are also accepted. Supply credit card information with your subscription order.

Our subscriber list is occasionally made available to carefully selected companies whose products or services may be of interest to you. Your privacy is important to us. If you prefer not to be a part of these lists, please contact Nicole at nicolel@colepublishing.com.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISINGMinimum rate of $25 for 20 words; $1 per each additional word. All classi-fied advertising must be paid in advance. DEADLINE: Classified ads must be received by the first of the month for insertion in the next months edition. PHONE-IN ADS ARE NOT ACCEPTED. Fax to 715-546-3786 only if charging to MasterCard, VISA, Discover or AmEx. Include all credit card information and your phone number (with area code). Mail with check payable to COLE Publishing Inc. to the address above. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING APPEARS NATIONWIDE AND ON THE INTERNET. Not responsible for errors beyond first insertion.

DISPLAY ADVERTISINGContact Winnie May at 800-994-7990. Publisher reserves the right to reject advertising which in its opinion is misleading, unfair or incompatible with the character of the publication.

EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCESend to Editor, Onsite Installer, P.O. Box 220, Three Lakes, WI, 54562 or email editor@onsiteinstaller.com.

REPRINTS AND BACK ISSUESVisit www.onsiteinstaller.com for options and pricing. To order reprints, call Jeff Lane at 800-257-7222 (715-546-3346) or email jeffl@colepublishing.com. To order back issues, call Nicole at 800-257-7222 (715-546-3346) or email nicolel@colepublishing.com.

CIRCULATION Circulation averages 21,954 copies per month. This figure includes both U.S. and International distribution.

Copyright 2014 COLE Publishing Inc.No part may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

March 2014

12 The Problem Solvers By Gil Longwell ON THE COVER: In British Columbia, Can., the crew at Onsite Systems Inc. takes pride in tackling the

tough jobs in system design, management and maintenance. On the cover, (from left) senior planner Shaun Pattenden, managing technician Trefor Digby and manager Ryan Parker pause while working on another challenging project. (Photo by Abigail Saxton Fisher)

8 Editors Notebook: Think Spring With the economy on the upswing and property developers back at work in many regions,

are you geared up for a busy year?

By Jim Kneiszel

10 @onsiteinstaller.com Be sure to check out our exclusive online content

18 State of the States: Getting Started Wastewater trade association takes off in Arkansas to represent pumpers and installers

on new regulations. By Doug Day

20 Pumps Directory

22 System Profile: Getting It Right A failed system, an adventurous homeowner and new technology create the opportunity

for a better onsite solution in Illinois. By David Steinkraus

26 Basic Training: Landscaping is Critical As installers, youre most concerned about what goes underground. But the customers you

have to satisfy might be focused more on aesthetics. By Jim Anderson, Ph.D., and David Gustafson, P.E.

28 Machine Matters: Hey, Good Lookin With advances in the quality of truck and machine finishes, whats the best way to protect

your equipment investment from a harsh working environment? By Ed Wodalski

30 Rules and Regs: Onsite design and installation updates a long time coming in rural Ohio By Doug Day and Sharon Verbeten

32 Notes From NOWRA: Onsite system design standards improve treatment performance nationwide By Bob Mayer

33 Industry News

34 Associations List

36 Product Focus: Pumps By Craig Mandli

38 Product News

ISSUE FOCUS: Advanced Treatment Units- State of the State: Joining forces in Wisconsin- Basic Training: Choosing ground cover

cover story

Coming Next Month: April 2014

Winnie May

Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Showwww.pumpershow.com

Education Day: Feb. 23, 2015 Exhibits Open: Feb. 24 - 26, 2015Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana

1720 Maple Lake Dam Rd. PO Box 220Three Lakes, WI 54562

Published monthly by

Get Social with Onsite Installer

www.facebook.com/OnsiteInstallerwww.twitter.com/OnsiteInstaller

www.plus.google.comwww.youtube.com/OnsiteInstaller

Accu-Tab is a registered trademark of Axiall

We may be new to you, but on-site wastewater expertise isnt new to us.We offer a new generation of wastewater tablets under our industry-proven Accu-Tab brand.

Ideal for on-site aerobic wastewater systems that treat up to 250,000 gallons per day.

Smaller 2 1/2-inch tablet design reduces the impact of wicking and minimizes risk of tablets getting stuck in feeders.

Plug-and-play with standard 2 5/8-inch feeders.

Contains a silica-based erosion modifier (instead of potentially reactive stearates) for on-site applications.

Paying too much for broken, unreliable chlorine tablets in your customers on-site aerobic wastewater systems?Get your quote at www.accu-tab.com/wastewaterexperts and information on how ACCU-TAB wastewater tablets provide a higher-quality solution at a lower cost!

Have we met yet?

contents 2014March PROMOTING WASTEWATER TREATMENT QUALITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE www.onsiteinstaller.com Bedrock, water posesite challengesPage 22Dont forget to fix the landscape Page 26 Bring luster tomachine finishesPage 28 Canadas OSI set itself up as the champion of the tough job, finding ways to install effective systems on sites with marginal soil conditionsPAGE 12

THE PROBLEMSolvers

Call toll free 800-257-7222;

outside of U.S. or Canada call 715-546-33467:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Central time, Mon.-Fri.

Website: www.onsiteinstaller.com Email: info@onsiteinstaller.com Fax: 715-546-3786

SUBSCRIPTIONSA one year (12 issue) subscription to Onsite Installer in the United States or Canada is free to qualified subscribers. A qualified subscriber is any individual or company in the United States or Canada that partakes in the installation, design, maintenance, manufacture, treatment, consulting or sale of onsite wastewater treatment systems or supplies. Non-qualified subscriptions are available at a cost of $60 per year in the United States and $120 per year outside of the United States. To subscribe please visit onsiteinstaller.com or send company name, mailing address, phone number and check or money order (U.S. funds payable to COLE Publishing Inc.) to the address above. MasterCard, VISA and Discover are also accepted. Supply credit card information with your subscription order.

Our subscriber list is occasionally made available to carefully selected companies whose products or services may be of interest to you. Your privacy is important to us. If you prefer not to be a part of these lists, please contact Nicole at nicolel@colepublishing.com.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISINGMinimum rate of $25 for 20 words; $1 per each additional word. All classi-fied advertising must be paid in advance. DEADLINE: Classified ads must be received by the first of the month for insertion in the next months edition. PHONE-IN ADS ARE NOT ACCEPTED. Fax to 715-546-3786 only if charging to MasterCard, VISA, Discover or AmEx. Include all credit card information and your phone number (with area code). Mail with check payable to COLE Publishing Inc. to the address above. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING APPEARS NATIONWIDE AND ON THE INTERNET. Not responsible for errors beyond first insertion.

DISPLAY ADVERTISINGContact Winnie May at 800-994-7990. Publisher reserves the right to reject advertising which in its opinion is misleading, unfair or incompatible with the character of the publication.

EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCESend to Editor, Onsite Installer, P.O. Box 220, Three Lakes, WI, 54562 or email editor@onsiteinstaller.com.

REPRINTS AND BACK ISSUESVisit www.onsiteinstaller.com for options and pricing. To order reprints, call Jeff Lane at 800-257-7222 (715-546-3346) or email jeffl@colepublishing.com. To order back issues, call Nicole at 800-257-7222 (715-546-3346) or email nicolel@colepublishing.com.

CIRCULATION Circulation averages 21,954 copies per month. This figure includes both U.S. and International distribution.

Copyright 2014 COLE Publishing Inc.No part may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

March 2014

12 The Problem Solvers By Gil Longwell ON THE COVER: In British Columbia, Can., the crew at Onsite Systems Inc. takes pride in tackling the

tough jobs in system design, management and maintenance. On the cover, (from left) senior planner Shaun Pattenden, managing technician Trefor Digby and manager Ryan Parker pause while working on another challenging project. (Photo by Abigail Saxton Fisher)

8 Editors Notebook: Think Spring With the economy on the upswing and property developers back at work in many regions,

are you geared up for a busy year?

By Jim Kneiszel

10 @onsiteinstaller.com Be sure to check out our exclusive online content

18 State of the States: Getting Started Wastewater trade association takes off in Arkansas to represent pumpers and installers

on new regulations. By Doug Day

20 Pumps Directory

22 System Profile: Getting It Right A failed system, an adventurous homeowner and new technology create the opportunity

for a better onsite solution in Illinois. By David Steinkraus

26 Basic Training: Landscaping is Critical As installers, youre most concerned about what goes underground. But the customers you

have to satisfy might be focused more on aesthetics. By Jim Anderson, Ph.D., and David Gustafson, P.E.

28 Machine Matters: Hey, Good Lookin With advances in the quality of truck and machine finishes, whats the best way to protect

your equipment investment from a harsh working environment? By Ed Wodalski

30 Rules and Regs: Onsite design and installation updates a long time coming in rural Ohio By Doug Day and Sharon Verbeten

32 Notes From NOWRA: Onsite system design standards improve treatment performance nationwide By Bob Mayer

33 Industry News

34 Associations List

36 Product Focus: Pumps By Craig Mandli

38 Product News

ISSUE FOCUS: Advanced Treatment Units- State of the State: Joining forces in Wisconsin- Basic Training: Choosing ground cover

cover story

Coming Next Month: April 2014

Winnie May

Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Showwww.pumpershow.com

Education Day: Feb. 23, 2015 Exhibits Open: Feb. 24 - 26, 2015Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana

1720 Maple Lake Dam Rd. PO Box 220Three Lakes, WI 54562

Published monthly by

Get Social with Onsite Installer

www.facebook.com/OnsiteInstallerwww.twitter.com/OnsiteInstaller

www.plus.google.comwww.youtube.com/OnsiteInstaller

6 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

advertiserindexAERO-TECH..................................................25

Alderon.Industries,.Inc...........................38

Alita.Industries,.Inc.................................38Ashland.Pump...............................................9Axiall,.Inc./ACCU-TAB...............................5

Bio-Microbics,.Inc.....................................11BODUS.GmbH...............................................17

BrenLin.Company,.Inc.............................33

BS.Design.Corp..(The.Dirty.Bird)........39Clarus.Environmental............................31

Precast, Inc.

Crest.Precast,.Inc.......................................27

Dalmaray.Concrete.Products.Inc......39

Eljen.Corporation.......................................31

Infiltrator.Systems,.Inc.............................3

Jet.Inc...............................................................39Liberty.Pumps................................................2

Netafim.USA.................................................17

Pagoda.Vent.Company.............................39

Polylok.............................................................40

Presby.Environmental,.Inc.....................6

RotoSolutions,.Inc......................................39

Salcor,.Inc.......................................................23

See.Water.Inc...............................................19

Septic Services Inc.

Septic.Services,.Inc...................................27

Septronics,.Inc.............................................25

Sim/Tech.Filter.Inc..................................10

Simple.Solutions.Distributing.LLC...39

SJE-Rhombus...........................................17

SPI.-.Septic.Products,.Inc.......................32

T&T.Tools,.Inc..............................................30The.Shaddix.Company,.Inc....................39

Tuf-Tite.Inc.......................................................7Weber.Industries.-.Webtrol.Pumps.15

Wieser.Concrete.Products,.Inc............25

MARCH.2014

COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE

Spectra Precision/Trimble NEEDS TO BE Trimble.-.Spectra.Precision.Division

Enjoy this issue!Established in 2004, Onsite Installer fosters higher professional-ism and profitability for those who design and install septic systems and other onsite wastewater treatment systems.

FREE FREIGHT on Full Cartons!

LID MAY BE USED WITH OR WITHOUT CONCRETE CENTER

24 HEAVY DUTY MULTI-PURPOSEFLAT RISER LIDFits most commercially available:

Risers IPEX PVC Ribbed Pipe Corrugated Pipe

Safety Screws4 Horizontal

Vertical Safety Screws

For a Complete Catalog and Pricing

Call 1-800-382-7009

Tuf-Tite, Inc. 1200 Flex Court, Lake Zurich, IL 60047

www.tuf-tite.com | 800-382-7009 2013 Tuf-Tite, Inc. All rights reserved.

1814

One-piece effluent filter fits in 4 Sanitary Tee.

Injection molded PolyPro Simple to install - Easy to clean

Injection molded T-Baffle.

Injection molded T-Baffle Fits 4 Sch. 40 and SDR-35 pipe Simple to install May also be used as Inlet &

Outlet Tee

4 Effluent Filter and 4 T-Baffle

4 Effluent Filter EF-4

4 Sanitary Inlet/Outlet T-Baffle

86 ft. of 1/16 filtration area.

800 GPDANSI/NSF Standard 46

COMPONENT ANSI/NSF Standard 46

COMPONENT ANSI/NSF Standard 46

4 Sch. 40 & SDR-35

SD-4

TB-4 Housing 18/carton

TB-4-18 Housing 12/carton

EF-4 Combo Includes Filter, Housing and

EF-4 Combo 18Increases time between filter cleaning.

Gas/Solids Deflector

One-piece effluent filter fits in 6 T-Baffle. Injection molded PolyPro Simple to install Easy to clean

Injection molded T-Baffle.

Injection molded Fits 4 Sch. 40 and SDR-35 pipe Simple to install May also be used as Outlet Tee

with Solids Deflector

6 Effluent Filter and 6 T-Baffle

6 Effluent Filter EF-6

6 Sanitary T-Baffle

244 ft. of 1/16 filtration area.

1500 GPDANSI/NSF Standard 46

COMPONENT ANSI/NSF Standard 46

4 Sch. 40 & SDR-35

TB-6 Housing

EF-6 Combo Includes Filter, Housing and Bushing

Gas/Solids Deflector

Secured by 6 Vertical and 4 Horizontal Safety Screws. Screws Included.

Foamed-in Permanent Polyurethane Gasket.

Holds up to 70 lbs of Concrete for Added Safety.

Concrete Keepers Tuf-Tite Riser

Vertical and Horizontal Safety

Screws

Water-TITE Joint

Increases time between filter cleaning.

THANKS FOR VISITING US

advertiserindexAERO-TECH..................................................25

Alderon.Industries,.Inc...........................38

Alita.Industries,.Inc.................................38Ashland.Pump...............................................9Axiall,.Inc./ACCU-TAB...............................5

Bio-Microbics,.Inc.....................................11BODUS.GmbH...............................................17

BrenLin.Company,.Inc.............................33

BS.Design.Corp..(The.Dirty.Bird)........39Clarus.Environmental............................31

Precast, Inc.

Crest.Precast,.Inc.......................................27

Dalmaray.Concrete.Products.Inc......39

Eljen.Corporation.......................................31

Infiltrator.Systems,.Inc.............................3

Jet.Inc...............................................................39Liberty.Pumps................................................2

Netafim.USA.................................................17

Pagoda.Vent.Company.............................39

Polylok.............................................................40

Presby.Environmental,.Inc.....................6

RotoSolutions,.Inc......................................39

Salcor,.Inc.......................................................23

See.Water.Inc...............................................19

Septic Services Inc.

Septic.Services,.Inc...................................27

Septronics,.Inc.............................................25

Sim/Tech.Filter.Inc..................................10

Simple.Solutions.Distributing.LLC...39

SJE-Rhombus...........................................17

SPI.-.Septic.Products,.Inc.......................32

T&T.Tools,.Inc..............................................30The.Shaddix.Company,.Inc....................39

Tuf-Tite.Inc.......................................................7Weber.Industries.-.Webtrol.Pumps.15

Wieser.Concrete.Products,.Inc............25

MARCH.2014

COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE COMPANY PAGE

Spectra Precision/Trimble NEEDS TO BE Trimble.-.Spectra.Precision.Division

Enjoy this issue!Established in 2004, Onsite Installer fosters higher professional-ism and profitability for those who design and install septic systems and other onsite wastewater treatment systems.

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One-piece effluent filter fits in 4 Sanitary Tee.

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Injection molded T-Baffle.

Injection molded T-Baffle Fits 4 Sch. 40 and SDR-35 pipe Simple to install May also be used as Inlet &

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THANKS FOR VISITING US

8 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

help your business may be slower in coming. If businesses are hiring, and you often hear about entrepreneurial startups that are doing well, you may have more reason for optimism.

Assess your staffing needs

Look back at your experience over the past two to three years. Has your revenue steadily risen along with the hours you have to put in every day? Are you missing out on more important family events and celebrations, prompting some complaints at home? Is cash flow less of an issue and youre not as frantic about making payroll from week to week? If the answer to these questions is yes, maybe its time to look at developing some front-line help.

If youre not able to support a whole new crew at this time, you might add a new helper-in-training to an existing crew, or a floater who will help out on busy projects and work on equipment maintenance or keeping the shop in order. When new business is just starting to percolate is a good time to slowly work a new person into the mix. Remember, the work you do requires a lot of training and doesnt lend itself to simply plugging in a new person and expecting a smooth transition.

Is your office running smoothly? Or do you find yourself pushing paperwork for a few hours every evening? In slow times, sometimes a receptionist, bookkeeper or marketing assistant are the first to go. As things pick up, remember the vital tasks these positions perform and get people on board to handle the work. A well-run office will free you up to bid on more jobs, keep up with your continuing education and give priority to business building.

Ask yourself where you want to be in five years

An understaffed business with a lack of marketing focus is like a ship without a rudder. If youre occupied with a shovel all day, youre not going to take the time to set goals and work toward accomplishing them. And you can bet that if youre not moving forward to fill growing demand, a competitor is filling the void.

You started a business to build something. Perhaps you wanted to pass a thriving enterprise on to your family. Maybe you wanted to build equity in customer lists and equipment to support your retirement? Many of you just love a challenge to be the best installer you can be. Any way you look at it, treading water is not the answer.

There have been bumps in the road, sure, and some of them you had no control over. Theres no time like the present to do some forward thinking and set a profitable course for your business. O

Check out NEW Exclusive Online Content & More!www.onsiteinstaller.com

any signs point to a brighter outlook for the U.S. economy this year. The unemployment rate continues to drop. A look back at housing starts for 2013 shows steady growth following the prolonged

doldrums after the collapse of 2008-2009. The banking industry is in a more robust position.

As for the new-housing outlook, such a big driver of the onsite installing industry, well it looks rosier in many areas. Seeing positive signs, real estate developers are coming back to planners in many counties and towns skirting cities across the country, looking to subdivide and conquer the market. Every time they turn a cornfield into a 50-lot housing development, it means onsite systems go in the ground.

You want to be in the mix for those jobs. Especially after several lean years where you may have had to let valued employees go, put off equipment upgrades, and spend meager revenues on marketing to capture as many of the dwindling number of new system installs as you could.

ARE YOU STRESSED OUT?

From my discussions with installers over the past year, I sensed a trend that reflected both a careful, conservative approach to rebuilding the business and a stress-raising compunction to burn the candle at both ends. I can sum up the installers business plan for 2013 in a few words: Do more with less.

I sensed last summer was a lost summer as far as enjoying time with the family goes for many installers. It was difficult for me to reach many of you to discuss stories in this magazine, and when I received a return call, it was often late in the evening after you put in a dozen or more hours on the job. My observation was that installers were busier in 2013 than theyve been in years, even perhaps going back to record revenue days of the early 2000s.

How do I explain that? After the dark years following the real estate crash, installers were hesitant to hire additional crew members as the work came back in incremental waves. Many remembered the worry about

making payroll and telling good employees theyd have to look for work elsewhere five years ago. So as the projects started coming back, they made do with a smaller workforce and aging equipment.

Sure, busy is good. But too busy can present some difficult consequences, both personally and professionally. First, I assume if you got married and had children, your intention was to spend quality time with them. Maybe you havent had enough family time lately. Secondly, prolonged stress in your job puts your health at risk and youre no good to anyone if youre sick or stressed out. And thirdly, if your feet are in a trench all day, you cant see the big picture the way a business owner must to succeed.

THREE THINGS

For many of you, things are looking up. And hopefully the entire industry will benefit from an improved economy this year. So to benefit from an advancing market and put your small business in line for success, I offer these three tasks for March:

Find out where your market is going

Its possible your market may not reflect the national trend. You need to be sure any liveliness you perceive in the local economy is sustainable before making big investments in your company. If you survived the down times, you are probably careful not to overextend yourself in the first place.

So its a good time for researching your territory.Check in on your local municipal and county planning offices

and find out the situation for buildable residential and commercial lots that would utilize onsite systems. Ask about supply and demand the planners expect this year and compare the inventory of vacant properties to historic numbers. While youre talking to local officials, ask about the relative age of most septic systems in

the area and potential tightening of environmental regulations that might prompt an uptick in system replacements.

Talk to area Realtors about the demand for new housing starts compared to the trend in existing home sales. Are there enough available lots to fill existing demand for new houses? Are developers still gun-shy about investing in new projects? Are there pockets of older neighborhoods trending in popularity and signaling a growth in repair and replacement work?

Lastly, take a good look at the employment outlook for your area. If large employers are still having a difficult time, the general recovery that could

FeedbackOnsite Installer welcomes your comments, ideas and suggestions on how we can serve you better. Call 800/257-7222; fax 715/546-3786; or email editor@onsiteinstaller.com.

editorsnotebook

Think SpringWith the economy on the upswing and property developers back at work in many regions, are you geared up for a busy year?By Jim Kneiszel

M

An understaffed business with a lack of marketing focus is like a ship without a rudder. If youre occupied with a shovel all day, youre not going to take the time to set goals.

March 2014 ONSITE INSTALLER | 9

help your business may be slower in coming. If businesses are hiring, and you often hear about entrepreneurial startups that are doing well, you may have more reason for optimism.

Assess your staffing needs

Look back at your experience over the past two to three years. Has your revenue steadily risen along with the hours you have to put in every day? Are you missing out on more important family events and celebrations, prompting some complaints at home? Is cash flow less of an issue and youre not as frantic about making payroll from week to week? If the answer to these questions is yes, maybe its time to look at developing some front-line help.

If youre not able to support a whole new crew at this time, you might add a new helper-in-training to an existing crew, or a floater who will help out on busy projects and work on equipment maintenance or keeping the shop in order. When new business is just starting to percolate is a good time to slowly work a new person into the mix. Remember, the work you do requires a lot of training and doesnt lend itself to simply plugging in a new person and expecting a smooth transition.

Is your office running smoothly? Or do you find yourself pushing paperwork for a few hours every evening? In slow times, sometimes a receptionist, bookkeeper or marketing assistant are the first to go. As things pick up, remember the vital tasks these positions perform and get people on board to handle the work. A well-run office will free you up to bid on more jobs, keep up with your continuing education and give priority to business building.

Ask yourself where you want to be in five years

An understaffed business with a lack of marketing focus is like a ship without a rudder. If youre occupied with a shovel all day, youre not going to take the time to set goals and work toward accomplishing them. And you can bet that if youre not moving forward to fill growing demand, a competitor is filling the void.

You started a business to build something. Perhaps you wanted to pass a thriving enterprise on to your family. Maybe you wanted to build equity in customer lists and equipment to support your retirement? Many of you just love a challenge to be the best installer you can be. Any way you look at it, treading water is not the answer.

There have been bumps in the road, sure, and some of them you had no control over. Theres no time like the present to do some forward thinking and set a profitable course for your business. O

Check out NEW Exclusive Online Content & More!www.onsiteinstaller.com

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any signs point to a brighter outlook for the U.S. economy this year. The unemployment rate continues to drop. A look back at housing starts for 2013 shows steady growth following the prolonged

doldrums after the collapse of 2008-2009. The banking industry is in a more robust position.

As for the new-housing outlook, such a big driver of the onsite installing industry, well it looks rosier in many areas. Seeing positive signs, real estate developers are coming back to planners in many counties and towns skirting cities across the country, looking to subdivide and conquer the market. Every time they turn a cornfield into a 50-lot housing development, it means onsite systems go in the ground.

You want to be in the mix for those jobs. Especially after several lean years where you may have had to let valued employees go, put off equipment upgrades, and spend meager revenues on marketing to capture as many of the dwindling number of new system installs as you could.

ARE YOU STRESSED OUT?

From my discussions with installers over the past year, I sensed a trend that reflected both a careful, conservative approach to rebuilding the business and a stress-raising compunction to burn the candle at both ends. I can sum up the installers business plan for 2013 in a few words: Do more with less.

I sensed last summer was a lost summer as far as enjoying time with the family goes for many installers. It was difficult for me to reach many of you to discuss stories in this magazine, and when I received a return call, it was often late in the evening after you put in a dozen or more hours on the job. My observation was that installers were busier in 2013 than theyve been in years, even perhaps going back to record revenue days of the early 2000s.

How do I explain that? After the dark years following the real estate crash, installers were hesitant to hire additional crew members as the work came back in incremental waves. Many remembered the worry about

making payroll and telling good employees theyd have to look for work elsewhere five years ago. So as the projects started coming back, they made do with a smaller workforce and aging equipment.

Sure, busy is good. But too busy can present some difficult consequences, both personally and professionally. First, I assume if you got married and had children, your intention was to spend quality time with them. Maybe you havent had enough family time lately. Secondly, prolonged stress in your job puts your health at risk and youre no good to anyone if youre sick or stressed out. And thirdly, if your feet are in a trench all day, you cant see the big picture the way a business owner must to succeed.

THREE THINGS

For many of you, things are looking up. And hopefully the entire industry will benefit from an improved economy this year. So to benefit from an advancing market and put your small business in line for success, I offer these three tasks for March:

Find out where your market is going

Its possible your market may not reflect the national trend. You need to be sure any liveliness you perceive in the local economy is sustainable before making big investments in your company. If you survived the down times, you are probably careful not to overextend yourself in the first place.

So its a good time for researching your territory.Check in on your local municipal and county planning offices

and find out the situation for buildable residential and commercial lots that would utilize onsite systems. Ask about supply and demand the planners expect this year and compare the inventory of vacant properties to historic numbers. While youre talking to local officials, ask about the relative age of most septic systems in

the area and potential tightening of environmental regulations that might prompt an uptick in system replacements.

Talk to area Realtors about the demand for new housing starts compared to the trend in existing home sales. Are there enough available lots to fill existing demand for new houses? Are developers still gun-shy about investing in new projects? Are there pockets of older neighborhoods trending in popularity and signaling a growth in repair and replacement work?

Lastly, take a good look at the employment outlook for your area. If large employers are still having a difficult time, the general recovery that could

FeedbackOnsite Installer welcomes your comments, ideas and suggestions on how we can serve you better. Call 800/257-7222; fax 715/546-3786; or email editor@onsiteinstaller.com.

editorsnotebook

Think SpringWith the economy on the upswing and property developers back at work in many regions, are you geared up for a busy year?By Jim Kneiszel

M

An understaffed business with a lack of marketing focus is like a ship without a rudder. If youre occupied with a shovel all day, youre not going to take the time to set goals.

10 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

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Thanks for visiting us

@onsiteinstaller.comVisit the site daily for new, exclusive content. Read our blogs, find resources and get the most out of Onsite Installer magazine.

Visit OnsiteInstaller.com and sign up for newsletters and alerts. Youll get exclusive content delivered right to your inbox, and youll stay in the loop on topics important to you!

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CONNECT WITH US

want more?

OVERHEARD ONLINEMandatory septic pumping and system inspections mean more jobs for you and ultimately, more money in your pocket.

Regular Septic Tank Pumping Puts Money in Your Pocketwww.onsiteinstaller.com/featured

TAX SEASON

How Small Businesses Can Minimize TaxesWant to minimize taxes and avoid red flags this year? Its all about recordkeeping and deduction-taking. Learn how you can turn tax season into a much-less-stressful season this year. www.onsiteintaller.com/featured

LAYING RUBBERBest Tire Buying TipsYour rig is only as good as its tires. Buy

the wrong ones, and you might experience premature wear,

decreased safety and higher operating expenses. Purchase the correct tires, and youre looking at increased fuel economy and great stop-start traction. Learn what you should consider before making this major purchase. www.onsiteinstaller.com/featured

Thanks for visiting us

@onsiteinstaller.comVisit the site daily for new, exclusive content. Read our blogs, find resources and get the most out of Onsite Installer magazine.

Visit OnsiteInstaller.com and sign up for newsletters and alerts. Youll get exclusive content delivered right to your inbox, and youll stay in the loop on topics important to you!

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OnsiteInstallerorTwitter at www.twitter.com/OnsiteInstaller

emails and alerts

CONNECT WITH US

want more?

OVERHEARD ONLINEMandatory septic pumping and system inspections mean more jobs for you and ultimately, more money in your pocket.

Regular Septic Tank Pumping Puts Money in Your Pocketwww.onsiteinstaller.com/featured

TAX SEASON

How Small Businesses Can Minimize TaxesWant to minimize taxes and avoid red flags this year? Its all about recordkeeping and deduction-taking. Learn how you can turn tax season into a much-less-stressful season this year. www.onsiteintaller.com/featured

LAYING RUBBERBest Tire Buying TipsYour rig is only as good as its tires. Buy

the wrong ones, and you might experience premature wear,

decreased safety and higher operating expenses. Purchase the correct tires, and youre looking at increased fuel economy and great stop-start traction. Learn what you should consider before making this major purchase. www.onsiteinstaller.com/featured

12 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

hen Ron Parker started working in the onsite wastewater industry, his focus was on overcoming site challenges for property owners in western Canada; the bigger the challenge he met, the more he

prospered. After 21 years, the company he runs with his son, Ryan, is built on the idea of overcoming any obstacle to build and maintain quality onsite systems.

Their company, Onsite Systems Inc., concentrates on site evaluation and onsite system design, installation, maintenance and the sale of related technologies. Ron, a professional engineer, and his wife, Pat, are the owners; Ryan manages day-to-day operations.

Based in Duncan, British Columbia, about 55 miles due west of Bellingham, Wash., and about 40 miles southwest of Vancouver, all of Vancouver Island on Canadas west coast is their service area. They will travel up to two hundred miles for a job.

SITE LIMITATIONS

In 1992, with the germ of a business idea planted in Ron, the family traveled across the border to learn about the more advanced technologies being used in the states. It was the start of a technology drive that has never stopped for OSI.

Overcoming shallow soil site limitations was what drove us to Washington State, says Ron. We went there for onsite system training. We

learned about the advanced technology they were deploying. Among the products they learned about was the Orenco sand filter, which expanded their design horizons in the cramped Canadian areas where they worked.

Canadas OSI set itself up as the champion of the tough job, finding ways to install effective systems on sites with marginal soil conditions

By Gil Longwell

installerprofile

W Onsite Systems Inc., Duncan, B.C., CanadaOWNERS: Ron and Pat Parker

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 22

SERVICE AREA: 200-mile radius

SPECIALTIES: Onsite system design, maintenance/ management, repairs and equipment sales

EMPLOYEES: 5

AFFILIATIONS: British Columbia Onsite Sewage Association, Western Canada Onsite Wastewater Management Association, S. Cowichan Chamber of Commerce

WEBSITE: www.osieagle.ca

H

THE PROBLEMSolversWhen they started OSI, onsite systems distributing septic tank effluent

were not permitted on sites with less than 18 inches of suitable soil. Parker believed improved effluent quality could change that dynamic and allow for safe and successful application on sites with marginal conditions. It turned out he was right, but as with anything new, regulators had to become familiar with the technology, its capabilities, limitations and the opportunities it created. The higher treatment achieved allowed the use of traditional absorption area designs to reintroduce effluent to the environment. In a few cases, the treated effluent has been discharged to the ocean.

Subsurface sand filters were well known in British Columbia and their performance became a benchmark for evaluating other technologies. These new systems did well, and the provincial siting and design regulations were eventually modified to include this technology and others identified later. Over the years, OSI has become a distributor of many treatment products, including those from Orenco. Orenco products were the first branded treatment technology the company was involved with and the ones they have stayed with.

PRODUCT PRESENTATIONS

Introducing new ideas and products to a community is challenging, and best accomplished through individual learning experiences during group events. For our sales to grow, we recognized that installers needed to

understand the technologies and products we sold. To enable these colleagues, we first had to help them understand their new opportunities, Ron says.

We found our own skill sets site evaluation, design, installation, and operations and maintenance or O&M all growing, Ryan adds. Evaluating soils is the first step to match a technology to a site; next comes the design. The province-issued permit follows. During every step, the companys

Trefor Digby uses a pressure gauge to ensure the PSI is calibrated correctly in this Orenco Advantex AX 100 system.

>

March 2014 ONSITE INSTALLER | 13

hen Ron Parker started working in the onsite wastewater industry, his focus was on overcoming site challenges for property owners in western Canada; the bigger the challenge he met, the more he

prospered. After 21 years, the company he runs with his son, Ryan, is built on the idea of overcoming any obstacle to build and maintain quality onsite systems.

Their company, Onsite Systems Inc., concentrates on site evaluation and onsite system design, installation, maintenance and the sale of related technologies. Ron, a professional engineer, and his wife, Pat, are the owners; Ryan manages day-to-day operations.

Based in Duncan, British Columbia, about 55 miles due west of Bellingham, Wash., and about 40 miles southwest of Vancouver, all of Vancouver Island on Canadas west coast is their service area. They will travel up to two hundred miles for a job.

SITE LIMITATIONS

In 1992, with the germ of a business idea planted in Ron, the family traveled across the border to learn about the more advanced technologies being used in the states. It was the start of a technology drive that has never stopped for OSI.

Overcoming shallow soil site limitations was what drove us to Washington State, says Ron. We went there for onsite system training. We

learned about the advanced technology they were deploying. Among the products they learned about was the Orenco sand filter, which expanded their design horizons in the cramped Canadian areas where they worked.

Canadas OSI set itself up as the champion of the tough job, finding ways to install effective systems on sites with marginal soil conditions

By Gil Longwell

installerprofile

W Onsite Systems Inc., Duncan, B.C., CanadaOWNERS: Ron and Pat Parker

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 22

SERVICE AREA: 200-mile radius

SPECIALTIES: Onsite system design, maintenance/ management, repairs and equipment sales

EMPLOYEES: 5

AFFILIATIONS: British Columbia Onsite Sewage Association, Western Canada Onsite Wastewater Management Association, S. Cowichan Chamber of Commerce

WEBSITE: www.osieagle.ca

H

THE PROBLEMSolversWhen they started OSI, onsite systems distributing septic tank effluent

were not permitted on sites with less than 18 inches of suitable soil. Parker believed improved effluent quality could change that dynamic and allow for safe and successful application on sites with marginal conditions. It turned out he was right, but as with anything new, regulators had to become familiar with the technology, its capabilities, limitations and the opportunities it created. The higher treatment achieved allowed the use of traditional absorption area designs to reintroduce effluent to the environment. In a few cases, the treated effluent has been discharged to the ocean.

Subsurface sand filters were well known in British Columbia and their performance became a benchmark for evaluating other technologies. These new systems did well, and the provincial siting and design regulations were eventually modified to include this technology and others identified later. Over the years, OSI has become a distributor of many treatment products, including those from Orenco. Orenco products were the first branded treatment technology the company was involved with and the ones they have stayed with.

PRODUCT PRESENTATIONS

Introducing new ideas and products to a community is challenging, and best accomplished through individual learning experiences during group events. For our sales to grow, we recognized that installers needed to

understand the technologies and products we sold. To enable these colleagues, we first had to help them understand their new opportunities, Ron says.

We found our own skill sets site evaluation, design, installation, and operations and maintenance or O&M all growing, Ryan adds. Evaluating soils is the first step to match a technology to a site; next comes the design. The province-issued permit follows. During every step, the companys

Trefor Digby uses a pressure gauge to ensure the PSI is calibrated correctly in this Orenco Advantex AX 100 system.

>

14 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

capabilities, confidence and value to others in the industry grew. We traveled the province teaching what we had learned, said Ryan.

The more they learned, the more they could share. Learning, sharing and deploying new technologies became a cycle that continues today. Soon it was apparent that while important education was not and should not become the focus of their business.

It was in 1998 that Dave Jackson, a former employee, and I founded the BC Onsite Sewage Association, Ron explains. BCOSSA has taken up the primary task of basic and continuing education of onsite professionals. This frees the Parkers to focus on product-specific training delivered primarily in one-on-one situations.

NEW TRAINING STANDARDS

In early 2005, a new provincial law, the BC Health Acts Sewage System Regulation, set province-wide training and certification requirements for those performing most onsite system tasks. The law assigns the training role to BCOSSA. Association-developed curriculum that satisfies the

System designs are filed with the health department agency, however only the designer is checking for compliance, and under this new system, they are checking their own work.Ron Parker

Ryan Parker uses a multimeter to check for proper amperage in electrical components served by an Orenco MVP control panel at a winery on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

technical and content requirements of the provincial Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) is presented. That entity issues credentials to planners, who do site evaluations and prepare designs, and installers, maintenance providers and inspectors, who evaluate existing systems at the time of property sales.

Creating a highly trained and educated workforce, the act has also changed the administrative process by which sites are evaluated and systems are designed and approved. Provincial Department of Health employees no longer perform site evaluations to assure suitability for onsite systems.

System designs are filed with the health department agency, however only the designer is checking for compliance, and under this new system, they are checking their own work, Ron explains. Ryan sees the same process being applied to installations.

Were looking for more policing of what goes on in the field, he says. There is a belief among many onsite professionals that the process has effectively been set up to fail.

At first blush, it seems unlikely for regulated businesses to want greater government oversight. But seeking the perfect balance of oversight without micromanagement is, however, something many

onsite professionals value. In this case, raising the bar on professionalism, accuracy and appropriateness of solutions, and the quality of installation are the goals OSI is pursuing.

DEMAND GROWS FOR O&M

OSI is different from most onsite installers in that it doesnt own and maintain any heavy equipment needed to do the dirt work. The Parkers prefer to lease machinery as needed.

A while back, Ryans brother worked for the company. He owned the equipment we needed and we deployed it, as needed, through a subcontracting arrangement, Ron explains. They have found it to be more cost-effective to rent a machine and operator than to sustain these investments through slow times. This allows the company to work within

Shaun Pattenden and Trefor Digby review maintenance records during a routine system check on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

March 2014 ONSITE INSTALLER | 15

capabilities, confidence and value to others in the industry grew. We traveled the province teaching what we had learned, said Ryan.

The more they learned, the more they could share. Learning, sharing and deploying new technologies became a cycle that continues today. Soon it was apparent that while important education was not and should not become the focus of their business.

It was in 1998 that Dave Jackson, a former employee, and I founded the BC Onsite Sewage Association, Ron explains. BCOSSA has taken up the primary task of basic and continuing education of onsite professionals. This frees the Parkers to focus on product-specific training delivered primarily in one-on-one situations.

NEW TRAINING STANDARDS

In early 2005, a new provincial law, the BC Health Acts Sewage System Regulation, set province-wide training and certification requirements for those performing most onsite system tasks. The law assigns the training role to BCOSSA. Association-developed curriculum that satisfies the

System designs are filed with the health department agency, however only the designer is checking for compliance, and under this new system, they are checking their own work.Ron Parker

Ryan Parker uses a multimeter to check for proper amperage in electrical components served by an Orenco MVP control panel at a winery on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

technical and content requirements of the provincial Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) is presented. That entity issues credentials to planners, who do site evaluations and prepare designs, and installers, maintenance providers and inspectors, who evaluate existing systems at the time of property sales.

Creating a highly trained and educated workforce, the act has also changed the administrative process by which sites are evaluated and systems are designed and approved. Provincial Department of Health employees no longer perform site evaluations to assure suitability for onsite systems.

System designs are filed with the health department agency, however only the designer is checking for compliance, and under this new system, they are checking their own work, Ron explains. Ryan sees the same process being applied to installations.

Were looking for more policing of what goes on in the field, he says. There is a belief among many onsite professionals that the process has effectively been set up to fail.

At first blush, it seems unlikely for regulated businesses to want greater government oversight. But seeking the perfect balance of oversight without micromanagement is, however, something many

onsite professionals value. In this case, raising the bar on professionalism, accuracy and appropriateness of solutions, and the quality of installation are the goals OSI is pursuing.

DEMAND GROWS FOR O&M

OSI is different from most onsite installers in that it doesnt own and maintain any heavy equipment needed to do the dirt work. The Parkers prefer to lease machinery as needed.

A while back, Ryans brother worked for the company. He owned the equipment we needed and we deployed it, as needed, through a subcontracting arrangement, Ron explains. They have found it to be more cost-effective to rent a machine and operator than to sustain these investments through slow times. This allows the company to work within

Shaun Pattenden and Trefor Digby review maintenance records during a routine system check on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

16 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

its project niche area and not have to take on all sorts of work just to pay the bills. That would be a distraction.

The recent economy has reduced demand for installation for OSI, but operation and maintenance needs continue. Accordingly, the balance of business is moving the company toward the latter. We have room to expand in this area without reducing our work in other segments, says Ryan.

Through 2008 we were operating full bore; until then, the effect of the 2005 regulation change had not fully kicked-in, Ron says. We saw some decline, but it was not until 2008 that we really noticed it, Ryan adds. Thats when a 20 percent drop in work across the board hit the province, which slowed new construction-related work, but it did not stop the need for O&M.

If the O&M service opportunity or need arises, we will satisfy it, but only for systems we have had some involvement in, says Ryan. As an Orenco distributor, they have been heavily involved in use of those products as an installer, designer, component provider and installer trainer. They currently do not offer O&M support for any other proprietary systems, however that may change. We are considering cross-training, said Ron.

SMALL AND EFFICIENT

Eschewing an equipment fleet enables the company to maintain its operations in a modest, former single-family house in a quiet Duncan neighborhood. The houses two-car garage is their warehouse and workshop. They also have an arrangement with a tank manufacturer to keep their Orenco inventory on his nearby lot.

In addition to the Orenco systems, the company also utilizes Xerxes ZCL fiberglass-reinforced tanks for commercial work applications.

A 1998 Chevy pickup is the entire vehicle pool. As needed, Ryans 2007 Toyota pickup is used as well. When we need Orenco components delivered, we coordinate that with the septic tank delivery and the tank manufacturer brings both at once, Ryan says.

Business promotion includes a website and targeted direct (postal) and email campaigns. The latter are focused on maintenance services in neighborhoods with special environmental considerations like lakeshore communities. Twice a year the company takes its training program on the road to the installer and service provider communities. There are times when we attach magnetic signs on the truck as another way to get the word out, said Ryan.

In addition to Ron and Ryan, Shaun Pattenden, a soil specialist, Trefor Digby, their maintenance technician, and Linda Taylor, administrator, round out the OSI team. Although Ron and Pat are officially retired, they are always available for consultation.

There are some onsite services the company has chosen not to pursue. The two standouts are tank pumping and real estate presale system inspections.

Both of these tasks are referred to appropriately credentialed local entrepreneurs who have the specialized equipment that is needed for this work, explains Ryan.

Founded on Canadas western frontier, this two-generation company continues to pioneer new techniques and technologies, enhance practitioners competency level and strengthen the associations they helped establish. O

MORE INFO:Nasco800/558-9595www.whirl-pak.com

Orenco Systems, Inc.800/348-9843www.orenco.com

Xerxes Corporation952/887-1890www.xerxes.com

Overcoming shallow soil site limitations was what drove us to Washington State. We went there for onsite system training. We learned about the advanced technology they were deploying.Ron Parker

Shaun Pattenden cleans an Orenco biotube filter, while Trefor Digby (left) uses a Sludge Judge (Nasco) to measure sludge and scum levels to determine if the tanks require pumping. Ryan Parker looks on.

March 2014 ONSITE INSTALLER | 17

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its project niche area and not have to take on all sorts of work just to pay the bills. That would be a distraction.

The recent economy has reduced demand for installation for OSI, but operation and maintenance needs continue. Accordingly, the balance of business is moving the company toward the latter. We have room to expand in this area without reducing our work in other segments, says Ryan.

Through 2008 we were operating full bore; until then, the effect of the 2005 regulation change had not fully kicked-in, Ron says. We saw some decline, but it was not until 2008 that we really noticed it, Ryan adds. Thats when a 20 percent drop in work across the board hit the province, which slowed new construction-related work, but it did not stop the need for O&M.

If the O&M service opportunity or need arises, we will satisfy it, but only for systems we have had some involvement in, says Ryan. As an Orenco distributor, they have been heavily involved in use of those products as an installer, designer, component provider and installer trainer. They currently do not offer O&M support for any other proprietary systems, however that may change. We are considering cross-training, said Ron.

SMALL AND EFFICIENT

Eschewing an equipment fleet enables the company to maintain its operations in a modest, former single-family house in a quiet Duncan neighborhood. The houses two-car garage is their warehouse and workshop. They also have an arrangement with a tank manufacturer to keep their Orenco inventory on his nearby lot.

In addition to the Orenco systems, the company also utilizes Xerxes ZCL fiberglass-reinforced tanks for commercial work applications.

A 1998 Chevy pickup is the entire vehicle pool. As needed, Ryans 2007 Toyota pickup is used as well. When we need Orenco components delivered, we coordinate that with the septic tank delivery and the tank manufacturer brings both at once, Ryan says.

Business promotion includes a website and targeted direct (postal) and email campaigns. The latter are focused on maintenance services in neighborhoods with special environmental considerations like lakeshore communities. Twice a year the company takes its training program on the road to the installer and service provider communities. There are times when we attach magnetic signs on the truck as another way to get the word out, said Ryan.

In addition to Ron and Ryan, Shaun Pattenden, a soil specialist, Trefor Digby, their maintenance technician, and Linda Taylor, administrator, round out the OSI team. Although Ron and Pat are officially retired, they are always available for consultation.

There are some onsite services the company has chosen not to pursue. The two standouts are tank pumping and real estate presale system inspections.

Both of these tasks are referred to appropriately credentialed local entrepreneurs who have the specialized equipment that is needed for this work, explains Ryan.

Founded on Canadas western frontier, this two-generation company continues to pioneer new techniques and technologies, enhance practitioners competency level and strengthen the associations they helped establish. O

MORE INFO:Nasco800/558-9595www.whirl-pak.com

Orenco Systems, Inc.800/348-9843www.orenco.com

Xerxes Corporation952/887-1890www.xerxes.com

Overcoming shallow soil site limitations was what drove us to Washington State. We went there for onsite system training. We learned about the advanced technology they were deploying.Ron Parker

Shaun Pattenden cleans an Orenco biotube filter, while Trefor Digby (left) uses a Sludge Judge (Nasco) to measure sludge and scum levels to determine if the tanks require pumping. Ryan Parker looks on.

18 | ONSITE INSTALLER March 2014

education functions. They dont have the money to do that. We hope to offer some educational opportunities to help people in the business keep up their accreditations. Were working with the Health Department to get people soils qualified. Theres only one school in Arkansas where you get soil qualified and its a two-year course.

Were trying to work with homeowners who dont have money to fix their systems when they do fail. So were looking for sources of grants and low-interest loans and get that set up. It would be a benefit to everyone if we could clean up those systems.

Ive been keeping up with the [U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys] work on nonprofit sewer companies. Arkansas passed a law four or five years ago to allow them [EPA in 2004 established the National Onsite Wastewater Demonstration Project grant program to build and operate cluster systems to serve groups of homes located outside municipal sewer systems]. Ive been pursuing how we can set them up out in the rural areas. We have a lot of lakes and poor soils, so were studying the types of systems we can put in around the state to help counties and developers install small community cluster systems so areas can be developed.

The more we try to do, the more money we need. We want to be a benefit to everybody and get what is best for the people of the state.

What do you have to say to the onsite professionals in Arkansas reading this right now?

Daley: If youve ever complained about a new regulation or not knowing about [a new rule] until two or three months after it passed, then you need to join the association so you will have a chance to have input when it is being discussed. Without that, you only get to complain about it. So join us and complain upfront when it matters!

Our website was built by my wife and I. Wed like to have a newsletter. Were just looking for anybody who is willing to contribute in any way. We can always find a spot for them to do something.

There are other states without industry groups like ARKOWA. What suggestions would you have for installers interested in starting a trade group?

Daley: Get started. Its not that difficult if you can get some people to help you send out flyers and get information out. We spent two weekends calling people right before the legislature went into session. I sent out emails every week about what was happening during the legislative session to keep people informed. Thats when people are interested because thats when the laws are going to change and people want input. Many states have active, successful organizations. Do you have a message for them?

Daley: Anybody who has any information about programs theyve used to get things going, wed like to hear it. Some have suggested we get together

with the national organizations. Thats an option as soon as we get the money put together. Everything ties back to money and membership. We would like to, but we dont even have enough money to send people to meetings and conventions to bring back information to help us; we have to do it all on our own dime. Wed love to be able to go to those things because thats where were going to learn. In 10 years, what will the Arkansas Onsite Wastewater Association look like?

Daley: [Laughing] It looks like Im gone! Hopefully somebody has taken over for me.

Weve taken over most of the education work from the health department. We have people on the board looking at regulations and what has to be done to improve onsite wastewater in Arkansas.

Were working with the Health Department in a team effort. We started by focusing on our onsite people and educating them. At some point, we brought the health department on board and were working together on the best things we can do to keep the water quality of the state safe and secure, and also allow the people of the state to enjoy their property and have the things they want for themselves and their families. Its a trade-off. You have to have regulations that make it good for everybody.

Im hoping we get to a point where the regulations are thoughtful to the water resources and the homeowners and residents of the state. O

If youve ever complained about a new regulation or not knowing about [a new rule] until two or three months after it passed, then you need to join the association so you will have a chance to have input when it is being discussed.Don Daley

he Arkansas Onsite Wastewater Association has only been around since April 2010. While it could use more resources to recruit members, it takes members to get those resources. It would help if they had more

power in the legislature, but that requires numbers, as well.ARKOWA was formed by Don Daley (president) and his wife Peggy

(secretary/treasurer). We talked to Don about the groups founding and its future:

What prompted you to start the organization?

Daley: My wife and I are both system designers and we were working with the owners of some highly valuable lake property. We found out we had to go through a lot of hassles. They got turned down for a septic system and we couldnt find any way to get a system approved. We ran into regulations wed never heard of and nobody could tell us how they became law. We talked to our state representative, who is now a state senator, about how we get into the loop when regulations are being made. He told us if we wanted a say, we needed a professional association and he would help us get started and get us a seat at the table.

There were a few people interested and nobody had the time, so we spent about two years and our own money incorporating ARKOWA and have been trying to get the membership up ever since.

How many members do you have?

Daley: We have about 60 members out of about 900 people licensed to do septic work. Who knows how many of them are really active? Were still in our infancy, but we do have enough people that the legislature will talk to us. Its better than it used to be.

If somebody wants something and theres nobody there to oppose, it goes right through a committee and to the legislature and nobody has questioned it. If you have an association, you can go into committee meetings and sign